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Decorative Concrete Overlays For Floors

Before you read any further, it’s important to know that not all existing concrete floors can be resurfaced. The underlying base for an overlay must be sound. If your concrete has severe cracks or other damage, resurfacing will not solve your problems and total replacement will be your best option.

A decorative concrete overlay or microtopping is a great solution for restoring and enhancing worn, damaged or discolored concrete floors. Overlays can also be placed over other flooring materials, such as vinyl tile or wood

Concrete Floors Deco-Pour/Harvey Construction Inc Everett, WA

Now, the real challenge is choosing from the many overlay types and the diverse array of decorative finishes possible. There are multiple options available for achieving any look imaginable with a concrete overlay.

CONCRETE FLOOR OVERLAY TYPES

Here’s a primer of the various overlay types available and the decorative options with each. We also give you pointers on how to choose the best system for a particular application. With the many options available, you’re sure to find at least one system that meets your requirements for durability, appearance, maintenance, and cost.

Although cement overlays have been around for decades, many of today’s systems blend polymer resins with cement, sand, and other additives to improve performance, wear resistance, and aesthetic qualities. Polymer-modified overlays can be applied in layers as thin as a credit card or up to several inches thick without delamination or failure. They adhere well to existing concrete and resist damage from salt, chemicals, UV exposure, freeze-thaw conditions, and abrasion.

While most types of polymer-modified overlays offer similar performance benefits, each system has its own unique characteristics. Overlay manufacturers use different types of polymer resins, often blending them to produce proprietary products with distinct physical attributes. Many of today’s decorative overlays use acrylics or acrylic blends because these resins provide excellent bond strength and UV resistance.

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CHOOSING THE BEST DECORATIVE CONCRETE OVERLAY

Consider these factors when selecting your overlay system:

What is the state of the existing floor?

Does the concrete have a lot of cracks or pitting? Is the surface out of level? If so, choose a higher-build material, such as an underlayment or self-leveling overlay, that can be applied at a thickness of 1/4 inch or greater.

Too much moisture in the concrete substrate can also be a problem for some overlay systems, especially products that restrict the ability of the concrete to breathe or release moisture vapor as needed. There are simple tests you can perform to check the moisture vapor emission rate of concrete. If it’s too high, be sure to use a permeable overlay system that will permit the moisture vapor to escape. (Read more about reducing bond failures caused by moisture vapor transmission.)

What conditions will the overlay be exposed to?

Be sure the overlay system is tough enough to withstand all the conditions it will confront. Is it a floor surface in a high-traffic area or subject to chemical, grease and oil spills? Some systems are better suited than others for harsher exposure conditions. Ask the overlay manufacturer or installer to confirm that the material you plan to use will work for your purposes.

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What look do you want to achieve?

Of course, the main reason to use a concrete overlay is to restore and beautify existing concrete. Determine the color, pattern and texture you want for your rejuvenated surface and then find a system that can achieve the look you desire. Consult with the overlay manufacturer and your installer for advice. Ask to see samples of various finishes and color selections as well as a portfolio of completed projects.

How easy is the product to mix and apply?

Ease of use may also influence overlay selection, especially if you’re the installer. Some products come preblended like a cake mix, and all you need to add is water. Others require mixing the polymer additive and any pigmentation desired with the cement and other dry ingredients. Some overlays can go right over properly prepared surfaces; others require application of a primer or bonding agent before overlay placement. Pourable, self-leveling systems tend to cover floors faster with less finish work than trowel- or spray-applied products.

How much maintenance is required?

Most decorative overlays, when coated with a protective sealer, are very resistant to stains, dirt and grease. Still, they will need occasional cleaning to look their best. Floor overlays typically require routine sweeping to remove any abrasive particles and occasional wet mopping with a mild detergent, depending on how much traffic they receive. Ask to have all cleaning and maintenance procedures and life-time performance expectations put down in writing before committing to a particular care regimen.

Source: concretenetwork

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